Advent, a penitential season
in Catholic and Orthodox Christian churches, begins
four weeks before Christmas. During Advent, the faithful Catholic pray,
give alms, fast and perform acts of sacrifice. It's a lesser Lent. Starting
Dec. 17, in Advent, says Benet Vision, the Catholic church counts down the last week till the Octave of
Christmas, praying the Magnificat or
O Antiphons (names for Jesus) litany. The Magnificat was the Blessed Virgin
Mary's prayer to God.

Each
day focuses on a different Biblical name for Jesus. These ancient messianic
titles are referenced in the Old Testament of the Bible. They can be found in
the hymn "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." Here are the titles in Latin and
English.

Teach
kids that the first title letters, Emmanuel, Radix, Oriens, Clavis, Rex, Adonai
and Sapienta spell the Latin word "erocras" meaning "Tomorrow, I
will come." Advent anticipates the coming of Christ at Christmas. The O
Antiphons take us to Dec. 24 the Feast of Christ's mass (Christmas). The symbol
for Jesus is two Greek letters Chi Ro (X and P). It looks like a Pax sign.

You
might also have children create free printable Jesse Tree ornaments and decorations for the Christmas tree.
Children could learn to play O Come Emmanuel. Here is free printable sheet music for
different instruments. Perhaps they could learn to sing it and share at a
nursing home or church senior group. Words are included on the links. You might
also make treats based on the seven Catholic Magnificat O Antiphons. Cut sugar
cookies shaped printable images. Or cut them like a star, sun, tree, key,
King's crown, Bible, cross, Chi Ro, fish, baby. Help kids explore the O Antiphons with
all their senses.